ITCEP
spotlight

Geometric Structures

and Their Connections to Algebraic Processes

Course Description

This continuation course will further enhance your insight and comfort with teaching geometric aspects of mathematics.  Investigate mathematical situations through pattern, symmetry and transformations, and study both algebraic and geometric relationships between two and three dimensional shapes.  Discuss the geometric applications of division and fractions, study distance and vectors through experimentation, and explore representational systems for shape, position and movement.  Units are aligned with state and national standards for grades 3-7 mathematics curricula.  Participants must have completed “Algebraic Processes and Their Connections to Geometric Structures” or an equivalent course and obtain permission through ITCEP. 

Tuition and fees for 2 graduate semester credits in mathematics as well as daily lunches, a parking stipend, and all books and materials are grant-funded.


Academic year requirements

To receive an "A" in this course, participate in the following:

I) Two Academic Year events:
    i) One “Professional Development Saturday”
    ii) One of any of the “Other Professional Development Activities”
II) Final Workshop

To receive a "B+" in your course, participate in the Final Workshop.

You will receive a "B" in your course if you do not attend any Academic Year activities.

If you need to miss several days of class, you will have to make a special arrangement with us and you will receive a separate email with your specific Academic Year requirements.

Go to the schedule of Academic Year activities for a list of events and activities available to fulfil these requirements.

Academic year schedule

2007 Events have yet to be planned. Here is a list for 2006 Partiipants

Professional Development Saturdays (1 required)

Date Activity Time
September 30, 2006 Tessellating Patterns (grades 4-5)
8:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
November 11, 2006 Spherical Journeys (grades 5-6) 8:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
January 20, 2007 Directions in Space (grades 6-7) 8:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
March 3, 2007 Chopped-Up Numbers (grades 3-4) 8:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
     

Other Professional Development Activities (1 required*)

Date Activity Time
Friday, October 20, 2006 Half Day Workshop 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006 Seminar 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 10, 2007 Half day Workshop 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 24, 2007 Family Fun Fair 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007 Seminar 5:00-7:00 p.m.

*You may participate in more than one in this category if you so wish.

Final Workshop

Date Time  
May 9, 2007 5:00-7:00 p.m.  

How to Apply

Download and print an application form. Complete application form and fax or mail to the ITCEP office, Attn: Teacher Professional Development.

Fax: 612-626-1150

Address: 4 Vincent Hall
206 Church St SE
Minneapolis MN 55455

Questions and Answers

Who is leading the project?

IT Center for Educational Programs (ITCEP), University of Minnesota

For whom is the program intended?

Teachers of grades 3-7 should apply.  Participants must have completed “Algebraic Processes and Their Connections To Geometric Structures” or an equivalent course. 

What are the objectives?

  1. Deepen teacher understanding of mathematics concepts and their connections to classroom topics primarily included in the grades 4-6 curriculum,
  2. Increase understanding of student questions and learning issues for these concepts,
  3. Participation in a teacher professional development network during the academic year which supports learning more mathematics, improvement of teaching, and integrating important math enrichment topics in the classroom curriculum, as well as providing other professional opportunities. 

How is the project structured?

  1. Summer coursework:  10 class days at the University of Minnesota
  2. Academic year professional development activities: Including choices from Professional Development Saturdays, academic seminars, and workshops.

    NOTE
    :  Additional academic year professional development and networking opportunities will be available on an optional basis.

Where and when is the Summer Institute being held?

University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, East Bank
Monday, July 23 to Friday, August 3, 2007 (10 Days), 9 AM-3:30 PM.
Additional tutorials or homework/enrichment unit development assistance may be scheduled as needed before or following class.

Who are the instructors?

Senior and post-doctorial university mathematics faculty and K-12 teacher leaders/mentors.
        
What is funded by the grant for each teacher participant?

  • Tuition and Fees for 2 graduate credits in mathematics from the University of MN
  • Transportation/Parking supplement
  • Daily Lunches and Snacks
  • All Books and Materials
  • $200 stipend for teachers who satisfactorily complete the summer course and academic year professional development component

How do I apply?

Fax or mail application to ITCEP

Fax: 612-626-1150 Address: 4 Vincent Hall
206 Church St SE
Minneapolis MN 55455

When is the application deadline?

The final deadline is Friday, April 27, 2007.
 
Additional questions to ITCEP at 612-625-2861 or itcep@umn.edu.